Things To Do
in Savannakhet
Savannakhet sits on the Mekong River near the border with Thailand, blending Lao and Thai influences. The town has a relaxed atmosphere with a mix of temples, markets, and colonial architecture. It serves as a gateway to central and southern Laos, with easy access to cross-border day trips.
Visit for riverside charm, archaeological sites, and friendly, slow-paced exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Lao coffee and freshly baked pastries. Afterward, stroll through the streets of Savannakhet's historic center, marveling at the colonial architecture and vibrant street life. Visit the impressive That Ing Hang Stupa, an important religious site that showcases the city's cultural heritage.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can sample the local specialty, Laap, a minced meat salad mixed with herbs and spices. Spend the afternoon exploring the Savannakhet Museum, which houses fascinating exhibits on the region's history and culture. Don’t miss the chance to wander along the Mekong River, taking in the scenic views and watching the boats go by.
As the sun sets, head to the riverside promenade for a relaxing evening walk, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Choose a riverside restaurant for dinner, indulging in a mix of traditional Lao dishes and fresh seafood. Conclude your night by visiting a local market, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and enjoy the lively ambiance.
After an early breakfast, set off for Phu Sa Dok Bua National Park, known for its stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife. Upon arrival, take a guided trek through the lush jungle, surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of nature. Keep an eye out for the park's unique flora and fauna, including various bird species and rare orchids.
Post-trek, enjoy a packed lunch in the heart of the park, where you can relax and appreciate the serene surroundings. Continue your exploration by visiting the park’s waterfalls, where you can cool off in the refreshing pools. Capture stunning photos of the scenic views and the vibrant wildlife that call this park home.
On your return to Savannakhet, stop by a local eatery for dinner, trying out traditional dishes that reflect the region's culinary heritage. Spend the evening at a local bar or café, where you can unwind with a drink and share stories with fellow travelers. If available, check out any live music events happening in the area for a taste of local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 💧Water bottle (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 🍢Street food snack | $0.50-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Strategic Mekong River location with easy access to central Laos
- Lower crowds and affordable prices compared to bigger cities
- Limited nightlife and fewer luxury options
- Some English is limited outside tourist zones
- Cross-border travel logistics can be slower during peak times
- "Sabaidee" - Hello / Good day
- "Khop Chai" - Thank you
- "Sabai dee mai?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Savannakhet
Visit one of these nice places.
A sacred, photogenic stupa with golden spires and calm temple courtyards that make for serene photography.
Wide river views, boats passing by, and warm light reflecting off the water—ideal for golden-hour shots.
Imposing fossil-inspired architecture and signage that make for unique architectural photography.
Shaded lanes, faded colonial facades, and colorful signage that evoke the city’s history.
Food in Savannakhet
Savannakhet Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting Lao noodle soup with chewy rice noodles, broth, pork, and herbs.
Must-Try!
A fragrant hearty stew with eggplant, dill, and meat or mushrooms, typically served with sticky rice.
Shredded green papaya with lime, chilies, peanuts, and dried shrimp.
Minced meat salad tossed with herbs, lime juice, and toasted rice powder.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market by the river offering fresh produce, grilled meats, and Lao specialties.
Street stalls serving grilled skewers, papaya salad, sticky rice, and local desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered); remove shoes before entering sacred areas; speak softly.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially elders or in homes; avoid flash in temples.
A friendly greeting with a wai or handshake is common; show respect to elders and monks.
Safety
Tipping in Savannakhet
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leave small amounts to guides or in restaurants if service is good.
Cash is preferred (LAK and Thai Baht). Some places accept Thai Baht or credit cards in hotels and larger establishments, but many small vendors are cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler days and dry air; excellent for outdoor sightseeing and river trips with comfortable temperatures.
Hot and humid; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
Frequent rain and high humidity; lush landscapes and vibrant greenery, with occasional flooding in low-lying areas.
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds; great for hiking, temple visits, and exploring markets.
Savannakhet at Night
Hiking in Savannakhet
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy riverside hike along the Mekong with farm fields and village scenery.
Moderate hikes on gentle hills around the outskirts offering views over the plains.
Short trails through rice paddies, forests, and rural homesteads.
Airports
How to reach Savannakhet by plane.
Small airport serving domestic flights to Vientiane and Bangkok; reachable by taxi or private transfer from central Savannakhet.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The central Lao-speaking population with strong Buddhist traditions.
Khmu, Tai Dam, and other hill-tribe groups in surrounding areas.
A modest but growing community of expatriates, volunteers, and backpackers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and pickup games are common in town parks and schools.
Traditional Lao martial arts often seen in cultural events or local gyms.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Savannakhet.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include tofu dishes, vegetables, mushrooms, and sticky rice; request sauces and fish sauce be omitted; communicate preferences clearly to avoid hidden fish sauce.